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Balanced Electrolytes to support recovery
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Supplements for racehorses & Endurance horses in the Middle East
The topic of supplementation in horse racing can indeed be a complex and controversial one. Here, Foran Equine provides insights into the use of supplements for Thoroughbred racehorses and Arabian racehorses, discussing their definition, necessity, and some essential categories of supplements:
1. Definition of Supplements:
Traditionally, a horse supplement refers to anything given in addition to the forage portion of a horse’s diet. However, the modern definition considers supplements to be anything fed in addition to both hard feed and forage combined. Most equine supplements aim to provide additional vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial ingredients to compensate for deficiencies in the horse’s diet or to enhance their performance and health.
2. Factors Influencing the Need for Supplements:
Several factors influence whether a horse may benefit from supplementation.
These factors include:
– Stage of training
– Age of the horse
– Health status
– Quality of the hard feed
-Time of year
– Intensity of exercise
Horses engaged in strenuous exercise tend to deplete their nutrient reserves more quickly than those in minimal work. This should be accounted for in their diets – their seasonal diet should be different to their “off season” diet (the diet they have when training intensity is not as high).
3. Essential Supplements:
a. Electrolytes for Horses: While some commercial feeds contain electrolytes, it may not be enough to cover the electrolyte losses through sweat, especially in warm weather. Providing an electrolyte supplement for horses two to three days a week and post-race can help maintain the right balance. Foran Equine offers products like Equi-Lyte G, Equi-Salts, and Refuel, which provide an excellent supply of electrolytes.
b. Copper Supplements for Horses: The need for copper supplementation can be influenced by the location where forage is produced, as copper levels in forages can vary based on soil conditions. Copper is crucial for maintaining red blood cell function, coat health, and hoof health. A copper deficiency in horses can lead to reduced performance. Foran Equine’s Copper-Max paste can be used to supplement copper if a deficiency is suspected.
c. Bone Health Supplements: The skeletal system is vital for a racehorse’s performance, and bone health is especially important during intense training periods. Some young horses may go through intense bone conditioning phases with reduced feeding rates. Bone supplements, like Foran Equine Osteo-Glycan, can provide key nutrients needed for optimal bone health and development.
Copper supplements for horses should be considered in conjunction with the horse’s overall diet and specific needs. It is essential to consult with equine experts or veterinarians to determine the most suitable supplementation plan for each individual horse, taking into account factors like location, feed quality, and the horse’s training regimen.
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Nicolas Gaumerais
Group Commercial Manager GCC Region
Based in the UAE, Nicolas Gaumerais is the Commercial Manager of the Connolly's RED MILLS Group which includes Foran Equine supplements and Connolly's RED MILLS horse feed in the GCC region. Nicholas regularly travels across the Gulf.